News

Trade, Market Volatility Key Priorities for US Cattle Farmers

27 July 2016

US - Over 700 cattlemen and women attended the Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting in Denver, Colorado, this week to discuss the policy priorities for the cattle industry.

Tracy Brunner, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association president, said: “This week showcased how the industry comes together to tackle critical issues like market volatility, expanding international markets, and the increasing federal regulations we see out of Washington DC.”

International trade remains a top priority for the cattle industry, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement.

“Trade is a critical component of the cattle industry’s profitability, and expanding exports through current and future trade agreements like TPP hold tremendous potential for our producers,” said Brunner.

“TPP will immediately reduce tariffs and level the playing field for US beef exports to these growing markets. TPP is a major win not only for the beef industry, but for all US export products, growing the economy while supporting jobs and investments in agriculture and technology.”

NCBA also said market volatility continues to threaten the effectiveness of the futures markets, and it is working directly with cattle futures marketplace the CME group to find a solution.

“Market volatility, driven by high frequency trading, has been a major concern for producers across the country,” said Brunner. “While discussions continue, I am confident that through working with CME, we can resolve these issues to ensure the futures market is a viable tool for risk management.”

Other priorities include ensuring cattle farmers' roles are considered in environmental protection legislation.